Monitoring Human Activity in an Area Dedicated to the Protection of the Endangered Mediterranean Monk Seal

Mediterranean monk seal populations have declined dramatically and survive in subpopulations scattered throughout their original distribution. The National Marine Park of Alonnisos, Northern Sporades is the first marine protected Area dedicated to the protection of the species in the Mediterranean. A Monitoring and Awareness Project has been carried out in the area from 1993 to 2000, the results of which have produced a detailed profile of the human usage pattern of the Park and indicated a significant reduction of illegal activities in the area. The pattern of human usage has enabled the monitoring team to adjust their efforts in the Park over time and provided essential baseline data for future management. The combined monitoring and awareness efforts have contributed significantly to the conservation of the Mediterranean monk seal by successfully protecting pupping sites and reducing human-induced mortality of the species in the area.     

The High-Speed Navy: Vessel Motion Influences on Human Performance

This paper presents the recent results from an ongoing analysis of the effects of high-speed naval operations on the performance, comfort, and safety of crew and passengers. A 127-m trimaran, the Benchijigua Express, which is similar in hull design to the General Dynamics Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) vessel, was investigated for motion-induced interruptions, motion sickness, and biodynamic feed-through to manual tasks. Data were obtained on two 2-hour transits per day for a total of 86 transits during February and March 2006. Survey questionnaires were obtained from nearly 2,000 passengers. The motion effects on manual dexterity were negligible, but motion sickness symptoms were reported by a majority of the passengers. The capability to manage the motion sickness issue for unadapted passengers may be important for the effective use of LCS to transport ground combatants and for Sea Basing concepts.